I finally got around to changing the Spark Plugs out on my 2010 Insight. I'm up to 109000 miles now. I thought I would post a short "how to" for those that would like to save some money when it comes time.
There are 8 spark plugs, the 4 in the front are very easy to get to, the ones in the back are also easy to get to if you disassemble a few things first.
The plastic shroud that surrounds the windshield wipers at the base of the windshield is the first thing that needs to be removed. In order to remove it, you will first need to remove the windshield wipers. The bolts for the wipers are 14mm. Once the wipers are removed, its time to remove the shroud. There are no bolts holding this down, only clips. The 2 clips at the corners are the only plastic clips that you need to be careful about breaking/losing.
The rest of the clips are all metal clips along the perimeter of the shroud and they just snap right off/on.
Once you have the plastic shroud out of the way, there is a metal plate that attaches to the top of the firewall that prevents access to the back of the engine bay. There are 5 10mm bolts that are holding this down.
Last edited by academytim; 02-11-2012 at 12:05 PM.
Once these bolts are removed the metal plate can be removed and set aside.
Now that the shroud and metal plate are out of the way, you have very easy access to the back of the engine bay.
From here on out its no different then any other Spark Plug change. The bolts holding the coils down are 10mm. The electrical connectors on the coils are very easy to remove/install.
The whole job only took me about an hour from start to finish. Now that I've done it once, I could probably do it in about 40 minutes.
Last edited by academytim; 02-11-2012 at 12:06 PM.
They use NGK dilfr6f11g plugs. From what I can tell, these plugs are used on several OEM vehicles from Toyota to Honda. I found an autolite equivalent plug for much less. Its still iridium, but was $6 each instead of $15-$25. The autolite's went right in and the car idles smooth as ever after the install. I'll report back what I find in regards to mileage/etc.
How can you make such a blanket statement about an entire industry and group of people? What do you do that makes you so high and mighty, Firsthonda?
I never claimed to be high and mighty. Also, I didn't mean to imply that ALL mechanics rip off people. Also, I'm not the first person on this forum to make statements in reference to getting ripped off by mechanics. As a matter of fact, the OP in an earlier thread stated something to the effect that he wanted to change his own plugs as not wanting to get "ripped off" by the mechanics shop.
All that being said, it is my opinion and lifetime observation that many mechanics do take advantage of peoples ignorance and charge over inflated prices for simple jobs.
__________________ 2010 EX with DDM 4500k HID Low Beams; with relay harness. Honda Splash Guards. Honda Vent Visors. Honda Rear Bumper Applique. Honda All Weather Floor Mats and Cargo Tray. Honda Leather Steering Wheel Cover. Yokohama Avid Touring S 195 60 15 Tires. Insulated doors for road noise with Quick Roof. kjanracings window rattle fix. Oversized Amsoil EAO44 Oil Filter. Honda Accord Low Horn Upgrade.
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Spark Plug Change - How To
